Fishing at Aurora Reservoir, Arapahoe County, Colorado

• Overview

  The Arapahoe County end of Colorado holds Aurora Reservoir. Elevation runs to 5,938 feet. Surface area runs to roughly 735 acres, so plan for one area rather than the whole. The edge covers about 8.8 miles, enough to hold several distinct areas. On our Arapahoe County list it sits near the top for size. You are 8.3 miles from Parker. For a city, Centennial is 12 miles off. Two sets of local rules meet not far from this water.

• Where to Fish on Aurora Reservoir

  Our records give 110 ft, so you have a figure to work from. The arms fish better than the open middle whenever the water is up. Points where the flooded channel swings in are the reliable ones. Fish documented in Arapahoe County include common carp, white sucker, walleye and green sunfish. Records at county level tell you what is around, not what is stocked here. On Aurora Reservoir a short move beats a long cast.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warm month here averages 72°F; the cold one sits at 29°F. A long season, with weather mattering more than the month. Some winters give nothing at all, so plan for open water. March through May is the strongest run, with October and November a second stretch. Time your trip to Aurora Reservoir by conditions rather than dates.

• Tackle & Baits

  This one is recorded as open to the public. Boat Launch Ramp gives a made launch, half a mile off. Parking sits half a mile out, which makes for a walk with tackle. Fishing from a pier is possible half a mile away. Mapping records toilets within half a mile. Take the rules with you rather than trusting memory. Rules for boats are stricter than rules for the bank in many places. Quincy Reservoir at 6.3 miles is the sensible second choice. Confirm access to Aurora Reservoir locally before you travel.